Looking to pick up some stainless cookware......

[markem]

I have around 30 Calphalon pieces dating back to the early 80s. It is all still in near new condition and I cook a lot.

BBB is usually a good price. Whatever you find, also look at Amazon. If you have a Macy's in your area, they are good to look at (pricey!) as are any specialty places.

Strangely enough, I just bought a Farberware non-stick 11" pan with glass lid. Some dishes just need a good non-stick (hash browns, for example). If you have some place like Fred Meyer, a big box that sells everything including groceries and lawn mowers, check out their sales as well.

The biggest thing about good cookware is that it doesn't make a hill of beans difference if your cooktop is marginal. I switched to gas when we built this place and I doubt that I'll ever own an electric cooktop again.

Good luck and take Peter's advice. If you can, buy one pan now and use it like crazy to see how it works for you. Be sure to not use metal utensils on stainless or aluminum or copper or well, you get the idea.

Oh yeah, in spite of advertisements to the contrary, I'd never put high end cookware in the dish washer. Hand washing will lead to longer life, IMO.